Introduction to structures  (Page 3/5)

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BACKGROUND

Structures are either natural or man-made . Designers of certain structures are often inspired by nature.

Assignment 12

Use two A4 pages and paste pictures of at least five man-made structures on each page. Write next to each picture what type of structure it is, e.g. a shell, a frame, or a solid structure.

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Assignment 13

Find an example of a structure of which the design is probably based on a natural structure. Paste the picture or draw the example on a sheet of A4 paper.

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BACKGROUND

Frame structures are sections joined together to form a frame. Support is from the inside and the frame is concealed. A frame structure consists of different parts, which are referred to as structural parts.

Columns and beams

Certain frame structures have vertical supports. These are called columns .

Structures also have horizontal sections that are supported at the ends or in the length. These sections are called beams . Beams often distribute the mass over two or more columns.

Assignment 14

Study the pictures and supply the correct captions.

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BACKGROUND

Joining beams, Anchors and Supports

Anchors are used to keep the upright poles/supports/columns in position and prevent the columns from collapsing. Anchors are ropes, cables (metal ropes) or chains keeping a structure firmly in position by exercising a pull. A joining beam is another structural section that keeps other sections in position by a pulling action.

Frame structures have components called supports . Supports secure other sections in position by exerting pressure against them. Supports are made of material that will not bend, such as wood or steel.

Assignment 15

Supply the following sketches with the correct captions. Write down your answers, numbering them a) to c).

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BACKGROUND

In this module we will also look at SHELL STRUCTURES. Shell structures are mostly used to protect or enclose their content. They have no frame, for their particular shape makes them strong and stable enough to support themselves from the outside. Their strength thus lies in the shell itself.

Assignment 16

What did the Khoisan, the earliest inhabitants of our country, use to transport their food and stock? Copy and complete the following table:

Choose from: clay pot, sheath, ostrich shell, skin satchel, branch fence

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Assignment 17

All materials used to make the above structures, were taken and used from the Khoisan’s immediate surroundings. If any of the above should break, would it cause any pollution? Give a reason for your answer.

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BACKGROUND

From this activity you can gather that shell structures are often used for CONTAINERS. Nowadays products need to be packaged very carefully in order to reach their destination intact. Important information about the contents must also be indicated on the packaging. Creative packaging promotes the sales of the product.

Assignment 18A

Study a small cardboard box and answer the following questions.